Kaya Kinondo Ecotourism Project

Program Description

Coastal Kenya has sacred forests called Kayas. These pockets of forest of 10 to 400 hectares found in the Kwale, Kilifi and Malindi districts of Coast Province owe their existence directly to the cultural beliefs and history of the nine Coastal Mijikenda ethnic groups.
Kaya Kinondo ecotourism project is a pilot project that seeks to initiate and test the viability of ecotourism as a means of linking conservation to tangible social and economic benefits of the local community. This conservation and development group started with the aim of coordinating conservation and development activities in the area. All incomes of the project go towards maintenance of the Kaya, cultural ceremonies, community projects such as schools and water projects. Finally, through a financial services association established by the community as part of the project, the project gives loans to community groups and individuals within the area to initiate income generating micro projects.

Highlights

The volunteers will gain unforgettable experience while working closely with the members of the local coastal communities. Additionally, they will be able to enjoy the nature and biodiversity of the location as wells as the sandy beaches of the coasts of Indian Ocean.

Volunteer activities:
Provide assistance to project management regarding improvement of ecotourism activities and microfinance
Support the Marketing of Kaya Kinondo Ecotourism Project
Assist in survey and assessment of Kaya ecosystems
Develop and deliver environmental and cultural awareness raising activities
welcoming visitors and guiding them in the forest.
planting trees at nearby schools and homes.

Qualifications

There are no qualifications required, however the volunteer has to be over 18 years old and has to be highly motivated to work towards the project's objectives.

Volunteer Types

What`s Included

Included services:
- Airport transfers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi
- 3-day orientation seminar
- Introduction to the city
- Accommodation and food (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during orientation and placement duration
- Coordination, mentoring and supervision
- possibility: 3-day Safari to Masai Mara National Reserve, 330 Euro

The following costs are NOT included:
- Cost of drinks like soda, beer, mineral water etc
- Cost of sightseeing
- Visa costs (www.ecitizen.go.ke)
- Direct donations to the project
- Local traveling

What to bring: Sleeping bag, sleeping mat and mosquito net are necessary. You can also bring photos of your country, clothes, books, pen